Controversy Trails Appointment Of Accountant General

In a surprising turn of events, President Bola Tinubu has reportedly delayed the appointment of Mr Shelmsudeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the new Acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), following concerns raised from the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation.

Sources suggest that the Head of Civil Service advised that appointing a new AGF would be appropriate only after the conclusion of the terminal leave of the current AGF, Mrs Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein.

The reasoning behind this guidance was that having both a substantive and an acting AGF simultaneously could create confusion, particularly before Madein’s terminal leave had fully expired.

Despite this, Madein has stated her intention to complete her mandatory retirement process before officially stepping down.

The situation has led to growing unease within the civil service.

Of particular concern is the interpretation of Section 120243 of the Federal Government Public Service Rules, which was said to have been “incorrectly” cited to advise against Ogunjimi’s appointment until March 7, 2025, when Madein’s tenure officially ends.

However, some insiders contend that President Tinubu acted within his rights to initiate this appointment, as a former Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Danladi Kifasi, had utilized the same section during the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to Section 120243, officers must give a three-month notice for retirement and should begin transitioning responsibilities at the start of this notice period.

A source within the civil service remarked, “The President’s decision to delay Ogunjimi’s appointment is based on advice that is not mandatory.

Typically, retiring civil servants have limited engagement at the office and should focus on transitioning responsibilities.”

Additionally, a retired permanent secretary expressed discontent with the Head of the Civil Service’s influence.

“No one should dictate to the President whom he works with,” they stated, referencing how the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission was removed despite having almost a year left in his term.

On December 10, President Tinubu had announced Ogunjimi’s appointment to the AGF role, effective immediately upon Madein’s pre-retirement leave. Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, shared that this decision was part of ensuring a smooth transition in managing Nigeria’s treasury and furthering the government’s treasury policy reforms.

Ogunjimi comes to the position with over 30 years of experience in financial management, most recently as Director of Funds at the Office of the Accountant General.

He holds multiple professional qualifications, including certifications in fraud examination and stockbroking.

In response to his appointment, President Tinubu expressed confidence in Ogunjimi’s capabilities, asserting that his extensive expertise will be crucial for the continued efficiency of the nation’s treasury operations in the context of the government’s economic reform agenda.

Attempts to obtain comments from the Office of the Head of the Civil Service were unsuccessful, as individuals close to the matter remained unavailable for discussion.